10/14/2026
National Pet Obesity Awareness Day
So many of our pets are at an unhealthy weight.
We can help our pets to be healthier, active and live longer.
In a recent APOP survey, 59% of dogs and 61% of cats were classified as overweight or obese. That equals an estimated 50.2 million dogs and 56.5 million cats are too heavy.
A dog or cat with an ideal body condition will have a visible waist behind the ribs when viewed from above; the ribs can be felt through only small amount of fat; and, when viewed from the side, the underbelly will be tucked up. Your veterinarian can provide additional information
Talk with your veterinarian. They can determine an ideal body weight for your pet and discuss how you can keep your pet at their ideal weight. Also, they can discuss options if your pet is gaining too much weight.
* Approximately 21% of dogs are already overweight by 6 months of age
* Reduces life expectancy
* Negatively impacts quality of life
* Obesity contributes to metabolic derangements andsignificant functional impairments (respiratory, cardiovascular and renal function), diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, and more.
* Is a significant financial burden on owners.
For more info:
https://www.petobesityprevention.org/?
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https://www.dogster.com/statistics/pet-obesity-statistics-trends/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUFTaRwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXBRdE1nVTZvZGNPaXV2OUhzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEehgSsy_SdP28ItI3LPrkhLyyb0kpi4xP9hlD_SPz5xU7u6JfoBCNwbv6uhFk_aem_rer4byBXvUezAGEBi1slLg